Car Seats

More children are seriously injured and killed in auto accidents than in any other type of accident. Each year, hundreds of lives could be saved if children were protected in cars by using child safety seats. Using a child safety seat is the best protection you can give your child when travelling by car.

When purchasing a car seat, look for:

• Label states that it meets or exceeds the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards;

• Is the car seat appropriate for your child's height and weight?

• Be aware of the type of seat belts your car has; all car seats are not compatible with all seat belts;

• Check recent car seat recalls before making a purchase;

• Be sure that the seat you choose fits your child - a smaller baby can slip out of a seat that's too large. Infants one year or younger and up to 20 pounds must be placed in a rear-facing seat, toddlers (older than 1 year and between 20 and 40 pounds) may use a forward-facing seat, and children who are between 40 and 80 pounds need to be placed in a booster seat;

• Consider choosing a seat that is upholstered in fabric - it may be more comfortable for your child